The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has directed electricity distribution companies (DisCos) across the country to refund a total sum of ₦20.33 billion to customers who paid for meters under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme.
The regulatory directive mandates all affected DisCos to complete the refund process within a 12-month period, in line with established regulatory guidelines and consumer protection provisions.
According to NERC, the refund order follows a comprehensive review of metering records and financial remittances under the MAP framework, which was introduced to bridge Nigeria’s metering gap and reduce estimated billing. The Commission noted that while customers were required to make upfront payments for meters under the scheme, subsequent regulatory adjustments and financial reconciliations necessitated the refund of certain overpayments.
NERC emphasized that the refund must be executed transparently and credited directly to affected customers, either through energy credit adjustments or direct reimbursement, depending on the applicable structure approved for each distribution company.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to protecting electricity consumers and ensuring fairness in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). It warned that failure by any DisCo to comply with the directive within the stipulated timeframe would attract regulatory sanctions.
The Meter Asset Provider framework was introduced in 2018 to fast-track meter deployment through third-party providers, allowing customers to pay for meters upfront and receive reimbursement through energy credits over time. However, discrepancies identified during regulatory audits prompted the latest intervention.
Industry observers say the refund order could significantly impact the financial standing of some DisCos, while also restoring consumer confidence in the regulatory system.
NERC assured the public that it will closely monitor compliance and provide periodic updates on the implementation progress.
Further details are expected as the Commission releases company-specific breakdowns and implementation guidelines in the coming weeks.
